European champions France and World Cup quarter-finalists England are clear favourites to emerge from Group B and it will be a major surprise if unpredictable Croatia or underdogs Switzerland squeeze their way into the last eight of Euro 2004.

The big guns clash on June 13, the second day of the tournament, in Lisbon with both camps looking forward to the match, especially as so many of the French squad play in the premier league.

"It's very important for us French who play in England," says Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira. "It's good to play them again. We have been looking forward to this for a long time."

Since losing their world crown after an awful showing at the 2002 World Cup, France have won 18 of 22 matches, losing just once, while scoring 57 goals and conceding only eight.

The one blemish on their record since coach Jacques Santini took over from Roger Lemerre in July 2002 was a 2-0 defeat to the Czech Republic in a Paris friendly in February last year.

France won all their Euro 2004 qualifiers and will be looking for another perfect run to victory in the finals.

Much will depend on playmaker Zinedine Zidane, who missed the first two games at the World Cup through injury, and his inspirational midfield partner Vieira supplying the forwards.

There is no shortage of talent to turn chances into goals with Arsenal's Thierry Henry, Manchester United's Louis Saha and David Trezeguet of Juventus all capable of finding the net.

The only worry for France is their ageing defence. But if that stands firm, they will progress.